ECDC: Alert for increased cases of Oropouche virus in Europe – What are the main endemic countries

The risk bell rings the European Center for Disease Control & Prevention (ECDC) as the cases of travellers returning to Oropouche infected are increasing. A warning of trips to endemic countries issued ECDC at the heart of the summer after 19 cases of virus infection were recorded in Europe last June and July. In fact, this is the first time the virus has been detected on European soil. In addition, all patients were travelers. The 18 of them returned from Cuba and one from Brazil. The cases were recorded in three countries: 12 in Spain 5 in Italy 2 in Germany As the ECDC explains, Oropouche virus infection has an outbreak this year in five countries in South and Central America and the Caribbean. In particular the countries are: Brazil Bolivia Peru Colombia Cuba The total number of cases in these five countries exceeds 8,000. Most (over 7,200) have been detected in Brazil. It is noteworthy that by 2 August 10 cases in the EU had been reported, according to an earlier ECDC report. How Oropouche virus is transmitted The virus is transmitted to humans mainly through stinging by a dipter like a gnap, belonging to the genus Culicoides. He is also transmitted by certain mosquito species. None of these insects are native to the EU, the ECDC reports. His main host (a carrier) is the snipa Culicoides paraensis midge, which is extensive on the American continent. Infection caused by the virus occurs as an acute disease with fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle and joint pains. Some patients may have more severe symptoms. Prognosis is good and patient deaths are very rare. This year, however, two people have died, and there is suspicion of transmitting the virus from pregnant women to their babies. The relevant announcement was made by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, speaking of 6 possible transmission cases during pregnancy! There is no vaccine to prevent infection, nor special medication to treat it. Measures against stings The ECDC stresses that travellers planning trips to countries where the Oropouche virus is inoculated should take intensive measures to protect against mosquito and sneezing. The measures it recommends are: Use of insect repellent Use long sleeved shirt and trousers Use of mosquito netter, processed with insecticide during rest These measures are necessary both during stay in rooms that do not have sufficient protection (i.e. screens from thin grid to doors and windows) or are not conditioned, and during outdoor activities. After returning, on the other hand, they must inform doctors of the history of their journey if they show symptoms suspected of infection with Oropouche virus. Source: Iatropedia.gr